Big game animals in the West are shedding their antlers, leading to a surge in shed hunting popularity. Idaho has implemented a new rule requiring out-of-staters to have a nonresident big-game hunting license to legally collect antlers, even on private land. The goal is to reduce overcrowding on public lands and protect wintering wildlife, with the license costing $185.

Montana is considering implementing a $10 shed hunting license for residents and a $50 license for nonresidents. California allows shed hunting on private and federal public lands but prohibits it on state lands. Colorado prohibits shed and horn collecting on public lands west of 1-25 from Jan. 1 through April 30 each year. Nevada requires shed hunters to carry a collection certificate for specific counties between May 1 and June 30, while Utah has established an Antler Gathering Ethics Course for shed hunters going out between Jan. 1 and May 31.

Wyoming requires nonresident shed hunters over 15 to purchase a conservation stamp costing $21.50 and has a special antler regulation area where all shed hunting is prohibited from Jan. 1 through May 1. Wildlife managers across the West are implementing new rules to regulate shed hunting and protect big-game herds during a vulnerable time of year.